Most foreign students with any intention of entering a good US university will have to take this test at least once in their lifetime. Yes, I’m talking about ETS’ Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) - a paper-based, computer-based, or soon to be completely internet-based English test that is required by quite a number of American universities (even if you’ve scored extremely well in your SAT 1 Writing component).

Depending on your location, you’ll be offered either the paper-based, computer-based or internet-based versions of the TOEFL. Of course, the internet-based (iBT) must still be taken at an accredited testing center (no home internet connections here).

Different formats can have significantly different content. For example, the internet-based test emphasizes more on integrated skills, and thus measures all four language skills, including speaking. Both the paper-based and computer-based tests do not include the speaking component.

Nevertheless, there is nothing to be afraid of as TOEFL is usually a relatively easy standardized test (if compared to the SATs). It is not uncommon for good students to score in the upper 95% of the score range. But this doesn’t mean that you don’t need to prepare for it. Try not to forget that the test fees aren’t cheap, and if you screw up the first time, you’ll have to fork out US$140 for an iBT retest.
So, now that we’ve cleared the basics, let’s ask the oft-mentioned question: Should you bother taking the TOEFL test? Although I did say that many American universities require the TOEFL, not all do. In fact, even those that do may sometimes exempt you from taking the TOEFL if you have taken comparable tests, e.g. IELTS or General Paper. Nevertheless, I still suggest taking the test as it does give you a way to boost your CV or compensate for relatively weak SAT 1 Writing results.

For more information about the TOEFL, visit ETS’ TOEFL website.